Convertible Training Aid for Multi-Stage Development of a Skater

ABSTRACT

A convertible training aid for multi-stage development of a skater is disclosed. The training aid includes a frame with front, back, and opposing sides. The frame has an upper frame that surrounds the skater, a lower frame, and a plurality of support posts. Each of the opposing sides of the frame comprises a front side portion and a back side portion. The front side portion is detachably coupled to the back side portion. A seat is detachably suspended from the frame and disposed at a position below the upper frame. The seat has an adjustable height. The first stage training aid described above can be converted into a second stage training aid by removing the seat from the frame and removing the back of the frame and the back side portions of the opposing sides of the frame from the front of the frame and the front side portions of the opposing sides of the frame.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to training equipment for skaters, and in particular to a training aid designed for multi-stage early development of a skater.

BACKGROUND

In order to become fully proficient skaters, individuals being initiated to skating routinely undergo a training period before becoming comfortable without assistance. Unfortunately, this initial exposure to the sport of skating (ice skating or roller skating) can be a difficult and sometimes unpleasant experience for those learning and those teaching, and is often characterized by varying degrees of discomfort, awkwardness, and risk of injury. In some cases, these difficulties can bring a discouraged beginner, particularly a young one, to the point of being turned off the sport entirely.

Numerous learning aid devices and techniques have been developed over time. These vary in their practicality and complexity, ranging from the classic ad hoc use of a wooden chair for support, to the use of specialized devices that attach directly to the skate. Training aid skating devices developed thus far are generally designed for a single learning stage.

Some training aids, such as the training aid described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,033,734, include a frame that surrounds the skater and a seat element suspended from the frame that the skater straddles to prevent the skater from falling to the surface in the event of a fall. While this type of device may be suitable in the very early learning stage, it has the disadvantage of restricting and confining the skater as he gains confidence. For a skater who has learnt some of the initial skating/balance skills but still requires some body support before skating without assistance, such a device can be cumbersome to push around and may prevent the skater from learning some essential skills, such as getting up from a fall on the ice or making quick maneuvers on the surface.

Other types of training aids, such as the training aid depicted in US Design Patent No. 357522, include a push bar with frame structure that does not completely surround the skater. Such training aids, however, do little to prevent a skater from falling to the ice and are generally only suitable once a skater has mastered some of the basic skating skills, such as balancing and mobility.

None of the known training aids are sufficiently customizable and adjustable to accommodate the learning needs of the novice skater over the full range of skill levels, from absolute beginner to competent intermediate. Accordingly, there is need for a convertible training aid for a skater which provides the requisite level of support and assistance from beginner until the skater can skate without the assistance of a training aid.

This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

It is contemplated that the present invention will comprise a training aid which can be adapted to the skill level of the user, thereby allowing any individual user to proceed step-wise through a graduated series of skill levels, culminating in a level of skating proficiency sufficient to obviate the need for any external support.

An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a convertible training aid for multi-stage development of a skater. The first stage training aid includes a frame and a seat. The frame has a front, back, and opposing sides. The frame has an upper frame which surrounds the skater and provides support to the skater's hands. The frame has a lower frame spaced apart from the upper frame by a plurality of support posts. Each of the opposing sides of the frame include a front side portion and a back side portion. The front side portion is detachably coupled to the back side portion. The seat is detachably suspended from the frame and disposed in a position below the upper frame; the seat is adapted to catch the skater in the event of a fall. The seat has an adjustable height between the upper frame and the lower frame. The first stage training aid converts to a second stage training aid by detaching the seat from the frame and uncoupling the back of the frame and the back side portions of the opposing sides of the frame from the front of the frame and the front side portions of the opposing sides of the frame. The remaining portions of the frame form a generally “U” or “C” shaped second stage training aid.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a convertible training aid of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top view of a convertible training aid of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a convertible training aid of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a convertible training aid of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a convertible training aid of the present invention; and

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the “second level” push apparatus converted from the convertible training aid of the present invention.

It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention provides a convertible training aid for skaters which can be adapted to the skill level of the user, thereby allowing any individual user to proceed step-wise through a graduated series of skill levels, culminating in a level of skating proficiency sufficient to obviate the need for any external support. The training aid converts from an early learning full body support apparatus (“first level apparatus”) to a graduated limited body support push apparatus (“second level apparatus”). The training aid is also adjustable to the height of the user, thus allowing the novice skater to remain substantially upright while moving about on ice or some other similar surface medium.

The training aid is primarily contemplated for young children or physically challenged individuals. As will be readily understood by a skilled worker in the art, it is contemplated that all of the components discussed herein can be manufactured of any suitable material, by any suitable process and to any suitable dimensions as required for the size and age of the end-user and application. In one embodiment, the frame of the training aid is formed of lengths of hollow tubing and couplers made from lightweight plastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) or streams with suitable mixed content. In another embodiment, the frame of the training aid is formed of lengths of hollow metal tubing.

With reference to FIGS. 1 through 4, the convertible training aid 10 is shown. The training aid 10 is for initial “first level” learning. The training aid 10 includes an upper frame 20, a lower frame 30, a plurality of support posts 40 connecting the upper frame 20 and lower frame 30, and a seat 50 detachably coupled to the upper frame 20 or the plurality of support posts 40. The training aid 10 may also comprise a handle 50 coupled to a portion of the frame (20, 30).

The upper frame 20 has a substantially squared shaped in this embodiment, although other embodiments are contemplated in which the upper frame 20 could have a rectangular shape, a circular shape, a polygonal shape, or another shape which is topologically equivalent to a torus and the like. The upper frame 20 is formed of four coupled frame members, namely a back frame member 21, front frame member 23 and two side frame members (22, 24). The frame members (21, 22, 23, 24) may be joined together using couplers (25), fittings, quick disconnect connectors, frictional engagement, other suitable joining means or combinations of joining means. In one embodiment, the frame members (21, 22, 23, 24) and joining means may also include apertures to receive locking pins (not shown). The side frame member (22) is formed of side frame members 22 a and 22 b that are detachably coupled. The side frame member (24) is formed of side frame members 24 a and 24 b that are detachably coupled. Uncoupling the side frame member 22 a from the side frame member 22 b and uncoupling the side frame member 24 a from the side frame member 24 b will divide the upper frame 20 and coupled elements into front and back portions, which are explained further below in describing FIG. 6.

In another embodiment, the upper frame includes two “U” shaped portions (the first “U” shaped portion formed by frame members (22 b,21,24 b) and the second “U” shaped portion formed by frame members (22 a,23,24 a) detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally square or rectangular upper frame. In another embodiment, the upper frame includes two generally “C” shaped portions detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally circular or oval upper frame.

The lower frame 30 has back and front portions. In the embodiment shown, the back portion comprises a back member 31 oriented generally parallel to the back frame member 21. The back member 31 is coupled to one or more support posts 40. The supports posts are coupled at the oppose end to the back frame member 21 of the upper frame 20. The front portion of the lower frame 30 comprises three distinct frame members, a front member 33 and two side members (34, 35), which are all joined to form an overall “U” shaped segment, oriented parallel to the upper frame 20. The frame members (33, 34, 35) may be permanently or detachably joined together using couplers and/or other suitable joining means. The lower frame 30 has openings in its frame between back member 31 and each of the two side members (34, 35). The configuration of the lower frame 30 permit a skater on the seat 50 to push its skates in a typical angled side/back motion without hit the lower frame with its skates.

In another embodiment, the back portion of the lower frame is a “U” shaped or “C” shaped portion similar to the “U” shaped or “C” shaped portions of the upper frame 20. In another embodiment, the two “U” or “C” shaped portions of the lower frame 30 are detachably coupled at their ends to form a square, rectangular, circular or oval lower frame. In an alternative embodiment, frame members (33, 34, 35) may be formed of a single continuous tubing forming a “U” shaped or “C” shaped portion.

In another embodiment, the training aid 10 may be better adapted for surfaces other that ice, such as pavement or a concrete surface, by coupling casters or wheels (not shown) to the underside of the lower frame 30.

The support posts 40 serve to connect the upper frame 20 and the lower frame 30 and position the upper frame 20 at a height that will allow the skater to hold the upper frame 20 to support the skater positioned within the training aid either standing generally vertically or sitting in the seat 50. The back frame member 21 of the upper frame 20 is connected to the back member 31 of the lower frame 30 by way of two support legs 40 a and 40 b extending outwardly and downwardly from the upper frame 20 and connecting to the back member 31 of the lower frame 30 at or near the respective ends of the back member 31 or alternatively at points along the back member 31. The support posts 40 c, 40 d, 40 e, 40 f also serve to connect the front section of the upper frame 23 to the lower frame 30. Two support posts 40 c and 40 d extend outwardly and downwardly from the front member 23 of the upper frame 20 to connect with the front member 33 of the lower frame 30. Support posts 40 e extend upward from the posterior-most endpoints of side members 34 of the lower frame 30 and couple with the posterior portion of side frame member 22 a of the upper frame 20. Support posts 40 f extend upward from the posterior-most endpoints of side members 35 of the lower frame 30 and couple with the posterior portion of side frame member 24 a of the upper frame 20. The number of support posts required may vary depending on at least the type of material used for the frame, the size of the training aid 10 and the weight that the specific training aid 10 is to support.

In one embodiment, the support posts 40 have set lengths. In another embodiment, the support posts 40 are adjustable in length, for example by making the support posts telescopic.

The seat 50 is suspended within the area defined by the lower frame 30 and upper frame 20. The seat 50 is detachably coupled to either the upper frame 20 or the plurality of support posts 40. The seat 50 is preferably formed of a lightweight, flexible and strong material such as nylon, vinyl, leather, or the like. The seat 50 may also comprise restraint means for a child so that the child's movements are further restricted. The restraint means may be in the form of a seat harness. The seat may also comprise a backrest. The seat and harness may be adjustable to accommodate children of different sizes and be easily and quickly detachable from the child, as is well known in the seat belt art.

The seat 50 is detachably coupled to upper frame 20 by any suitable connecting means 52. Such suitable connecting means can include nylon straps and flexible ropes, connector loop, snaps, or Velcro®. In one embodiment, the seat 50 may be detachably coupled to an upper portion of the support posts 40. Preferably, the seat 50 secured to the upper frame 20 or support posts 40 should be strong enough to support the full weight of the skater.

The seat 50 hangs suspended from the upper frame 20 or the support posts 40 and is symmetrical about the anterior-posterior axis of the training aid. The connecting means can be tightened or loosened, which serves to adjust their length and allows for a corresponding adjustment of the height of the seat 50 above the surface medium, making the harness fully adjustable with respect to height. The seat 50 is primarily intended to act as a safety device in case a skater slips, thus preventing the skater from falling to the ice. It can however also be used for sitting or as a resting zone. The seat 50 is also fully removable, with removal being effected by unfastening of the connecting means from the upper frame 20 or support posts 40.

A handle 60 can be detachably coupled to the upper frame 20, lower frame 30 or support posts 40. As shown, the handle 60 is coupled at the midpoint of the back member 31 of the lower frame 30, such that the connection point lies directly on the anterior-posterior axis of the training aid 10. The handle 60 extends upwardly and posteriorly from the back member 31 of the lower frame 30, terminating in a hand grip 62, such that the handle can easily be used as a mechanism to push or pull the device by way of an external force applied to the handle. The handle may be made of the same material as the framing of the training aid 10. In one embodiment, the handle 60 has a set length and is provided as a unitary structure. In another embodiment, the handle 60 is adjustable in length, for example by making the handle segments telescopic. In another embodiment, the handle 60 may comprise one or more tubes and may be similarly comprised of one or more sections.

Another aspect of the present invention is that a variety of accessories may be selectively added to the training aid 10. For example, a canopy or tent like structure (not shown) may be detachably coupled to the upper frame 20 to block winds and snow from the user's face and upper body. Such canopy or tent like structure may be provided and secured to the upper frame 20 as known in the art.

If desired, pouches, racks, baskets, toddler toys or other convenient devices (not shown) may similarly be detachably secured adjacent to the upper frame 20. Such pouches, racks or baskets may be useful to hold items for long skating outings. Similarly, toys attached to the upper frame 20 may entertain young children while they skate or rest in the seat.

FIG. 6 shows the graduated limited body support push apparatus 12 (“second level apparatus 12”) of the present invention. When the skater has learnt some of the initial basic skills and no longer needs the seat 50 or the upper frame 20 that fully surrounds the skater, the seat 50 can be detached from the training aid 10. The side frame members 22 b and 24 b are then detached from side frame members 22 a and 24 a, thus separating the rear section (20 a, 24 a, 31, 40 a, 40 b and 60) of the training aid 10 from the front section (22 a, 23, 24 a, 33, 34, 35, 40 c, 40 d, 40 e and 40 f) and creating the second level apparatus 12.

The first level training aid 10 can be restored by simply re-attaching the rear section and the front section of the training aid 10.

The training aid 10 provides for a progression of skill level of a user from an absolute beginner skater up to the level of skill of a skater that no longer needs any support to skate on his own. In its first level configuration, an instructor, parent or friend can push or pull the user of the training aid 10 along a surface using the handle while the user becomes accustomed to the basic movements of skating. At a slightly higher skill level, the handle can be removed, and the user can provide the motive force to propel the training aid 10. At a higher skill level still, the seat 50 can be removed, allowing the user to become accustomed to skating without it. Finally, as the user has acquired some of the basic balancing and motive skating skills, the first level training aid 10 can be converted in the second level push apparatus 12 as described above, allowing the user that grips along the remaining upper frame portions 22 a, 23, 24 a some more limited body support with the freedom to take longer skating strides and to learn to get up on his own. In this way, the user can progress from a fully passive beginner to a competent intermediate, ultimately surpassing any need for the push apparatus 12.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific features and embodiments thereof, it is evident that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the invention. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded simply as illustrations of the invention as defined by the appended claims, and are contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. 

We claim:
 1. A convertible training aid for multi-stage development of a skater comprising: a first stage training aid comprising a frame having front, back, and opposing sides, the frame having an upper frame adapted to entirely surround a skater and provide support to the skater's hands, a lower frame spaced apart from the upper frame, and a plurality of support posts coupled at one end to the upper frame and at a second end to the lower frame, each of the opposing sides of the frame comprises a front side portion and a back side portion, the front side portion being detachably coupled to the back side portion, a seat detachably suspended from the frame and disposed in a position below the upper frame; the seat being adapted to catch a skater in the event of a fall and having an adjustable height between the upper frame and the lower frame, wherein the first stage training aid is converted to a second stage training aid by detaching the seat from the frame and uncoupling the back of the frame and the back side portions of the opposing sides of the frame from the front of the frame and the front side portions of the opposing sides of the frame, creating a generally “U” or “C” shaped second stage training aid.
 2. The training aid of claim 1 further comprising a handle detachably coupled to the frame.
 3. The training aid of claim 2, wherein the handle is coupled to the upper frame.
 4. The training aid of claim 2, wherein the handle is coupled to the lower frame.
 5. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the seat is a harness seat.
 6. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the seat includes means of securing a skater to the seat.
 7. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the front side portion and the back side portion of the opposing sides of the frame are detachably couplable at the upper frame.
 8. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the upper frame comprises two generally U shaped portions detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally square or rectangular upper frame.
 9. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the upper frame comprises two generally C shaped portions detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally circular or oval upper frame.
 10. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the lower frame comprises two generally U shaped portions detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally square or rectangular lower frame.
 11. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the lower frame comprises two generally C shaped portions detachably coupled at their ends to form a generally circular or oval lower frame.
 12. The training aid of claim 1, wherein the lower frame comprises a generally U shaped front portion and a generally straight back portion substantially perpendicular to the U shaped front portion.
 13. The training aid of claim 1, wherein a lower frame is adapted to move freely about the skating surface.
 14. The training aid of claim 11, wherein a lower frame rests on the skating surface.
 15. The training aid of claim 1, wherein a lower frame comprises casters for roller skating applications. 